SPIN THE PLATTER
(See also My Lady's Toilet)
10 to 30 or more players.
Parlor; schoolroom.
All the players are numbered and seated in a circle, except one, who stands in the center and twirls a platter, tray, or some other round object. As he starts it spinning, he calls any number that he chooses, and the player bearing that number must at once spring forward and try to catch the platter before it ceases to spin and falls to the floor. If successful, he returns to his place in the circle. If not successful, he takes the place of the spinner and pays a forfeit. The forfeits are all redeemed at the end of the game.
This game may also be played by calling the players by name instead of numbering them.